Museum of Death History

The World Famous Museum of Death was founded in June, 1995 when JD Healy and Cathee Shultz decided to fill the void in death education in this country and made death their life’s work.

Evolving from the controversial Rita Dean art gallery, the Museum of Death was originally located in San Diego’s 1st mortuary- the building itself once owned by Wyatt Earp. Now located in Hollywood, California and New Orleans, Louisiana, the Museum of Death houses the world’s largest collection of serial killer artwork, antique funeral ephemera, mortician and coroners instruments, Manson Family memorabilia, pet death taxidermy, crime scene photographs and so much more! Each location is entirely unique as the museum does not feature any replicas or duplicates of the exhibits or artifacts.

The Museum of Death experience is a self guided tour lasting approximately 45 minutes to an hour, however those who can stomach it may stay as long as they like, as there are hundreds of items on display. To ensure that you experience the entire museum we recommend arriving no later than an hour before the posted closing time for that day.

There is no age limit for the Museum of Death because death affects us all, however we STRONGLY recommend the museum only for MATURE AUDIENCES! Some content within the exhibits may be too graphic or explicit for children, and no children will be allowed inside without a parent being present. There have been a number of “falling down ovations” (people fainting) throughout the years so we encourage you to prepare yourself before arriving!